How To Become A True Crime Writer

Become A True Crime Writer

Are you wondering what it takes to become a true crime writer? Writing true crime is not for faint of heart, but if you’re fascinated by the human condition and want to know why people do the things they do, read on for some helpful tips:

First, get tough. Prepare to visit convicted killers and interact with victims’ families, most of whom will consider you an intruder. They might refuse to talk to you, send you hate mail, accuse you of interfering with the prosecution.

Second, prepare to sell yourself in addition to your subject. Before you write a single word, you need to sell the idea of the book to an agent or publisher. Do some market research and be realistic about the appeal of your project.

Third, accept the facts. Tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth even if it’s not exciting. You have to be part novelist, part journalist. Ask the hard questions. Conduct the difficult interviews. Get to the truth.

These are just a few lessons I’ve learned after writing five true crime books. If you’re serious about joining the ranks of successful true crime writers, I encourage you to enroll in my true crime writing class where you’ll learn how to interview those involved in the case, craft winning pitches, and establish credibility as an author in this genre and more.